Decanter has released its first Festive Wine Guide, which features 230 exceptional wine selections primarily focused on availability in UK high street shops. This guide serves as an essential resource for planning the Christmas and New Year festivities in 2025, enhancing your celebrations with expert pairing advice.
The holiday season is often filled with joy but can also be a source of stress, especially for those hosting gatherings such as year-end parties or holiday feasts. Choosing the right wines to complement your festive meals, including traditional turkey or vegetarian dishes, can add to this pressure. Fortunately, Decanter’s experts have examined numerous retailers, both in-store and online, to curate a list of the best bottles for your holiday period.
For those planning to host New Year’s Eve celebrations, stocking up early on sparkling wines is recommended for a smooth entry into the new year. Additionally, the guide includes strategies for pairing wine with your festive dinner, ensuring a delightful match with each course.
While the guide highlights wines easily found at major UK retailers, it also points out outstanding Champagnes and sparkling options available from independent retailers. Dessert lovers will appreciate the curated selections of sweet and fortified wines ideal for after-dinner enjoyment.
The Festive Wine Guide also addresses common dilemmas such as how to decant properly and what to do if a cork breaks during a gathering. Readers are encouraged to relax with a glass of their preferred wine and explore the recommendations at their convenience, allowing for a more enjoyable holiday experience.